The relationship between tooth vibratory sensation and periodontal disease.

Forty subjects both with and without periodontal disease were studied. Tooth proprioception was tested in regard to vibratory stimuli and the sensory perception thresholds were measured. A link was found between the quantitative diminution of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone and the perception thresholds relative to vibratory stimuli. These thresholds are elevated in subjects with periodontal disease and are dependent on the region of the dental arch to which the stimulus is applied. Modification of these afferent sensory impulses leads to a change in the occlusal stroke pattern and possible exacerbation of the initial insult.